This study provides an overview of the main events that took place in Belarus in the fields of culture and historiography during January 2025, which are related to the formation of national identity.
The following trends were identified in January:
- The international cultural cooperation of official Belarusian authorities remains almost entirely monopolized by Russia.
- Russia, (pro-)Russian organizations, and activists continue their activities in Belarus, promoting Russian culture and the Russian language, and laying the groundwork for further integration through events, competitions, book distribution, etc.
- In the ideological sphere, the sacralization of the Soviet past continues, with significant attention still paid to the theme of the Great Patriotic War.
- The promotion of the Russian language and the creation of a unified (Russian) linguistic space continue to be observed.
- Belarusian national culture is increasingly tied to the Russian one and continues to exist under conditions of repression and bans.
These trends may have serious consequences for Belarus, as they are aimed at the loss of its identity, the creation of conditions for further integration with Russia, and, with the simultaneous expansion of Russian culture, the disappearance of Belarus within it. Belarus is gradually losing its national individuality.
The entire report can be read or downloaded from this link.
The report is also available in Belarussian.
Материал доступен на русском языке: Нацыянальная ідэнтычнасць у Беларусі. Агляд асноўных падзей і тэндэнцый за люты 2025 года
